In a troubling development, the Nigerian Federal Government has confirmed the first case of anthrax disease detected on a farm in the Suleja area of Niger State.
This revelation came through an official statement released by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development on Monday. The statement, signed by Nigeria’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Columba T. Vakuru, highlights the seriousness of the situation.
A few weeks ago, the government issued a warning to Nigerians about the potential dangers of consuming hides commonly known as ‘ponmo.’
This caution was prompted by the spread of anthrax disease in neighboring countries.
The disease had already been identified as a significant concern in northern Ghana, where it borders Burkina Faso and Togo.
In response to growing concerns, the government pledged to keep citizens informed about any developments regarding the disease.
According to today’s statement, the Office of the Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria received notification on July 14, 2023, regarding animals exhibiting symptoms suggestive of anthrax on a farm in Suleja, Niger State.
The farm in question housed various animal species, including cattle, sheep, and goats.
Unfortunately, some of these animals displayed distressing symptoms, including bleeding from their body openings, such as the anus, nose, eyes, and ears.
To address the situation promptly, a Rapid Response team, consisting of federal and state One Health professionals, conducted preliminary investigations on the farm and collected samples from the affected animals.
Tragically, subsequent laboratory tests at the National Veterinary Research Institute confirmed the diagnosis, marking the first recorded case of anthrax in Nigeria in recent years, following the outbreak reported in Northern Ghana a few weeks prior. Regrettably, all the affected animals succumbed to the disease.
Anthrax is a disease caused by the spore-forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis, primarily affecting animals such as cattle, sheep, and goats.
However, it can also infect humans who come into direct contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products, including meat, wool, or hides.
Inhalation anthrax can occur through the inhalation of spores, while cutaneous anthrax may result from contact with contaminated materials or open wounds.
In light of this distressing development, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development calls on all Nigerians to maintain stringent hygiene practices on farms.
Regular cleaning and disinfection of animal housing, feeding equipment, and water troughs are vital.
Additionally, biosecurity measures must be strictly followed, including controlling access to farms, restricting the movement of animals, and disinfecting vehicles and equipment entering and leaving the premises.
Adequate access to clean and safe water for livestock is essential, and using water from stagnant sources should be avoided.
Moreover, sick animals must be isolated immediately, and strict quarantine measures should be implemented to prevent the spread of anthrax to other animals or humans.
Early detection and reporting of suspected anthrax cases in animals or humans play a crucial role in implementing effective control measures.
This alarming situation requires the collective vigilance and cooperation of all stakeholders, from farmers to government authorities, to prevent further outbreaks and protect both animals and human health.
